Whether you're struggling to write or create, the tips below will help you Embrace your Inner Critic to free your creativity and self-expression. Read on and Enjoy...
5 Ways to Embrace your Inner Critic with Creative Writing
Have a daily (or consistent) writing practice. I started years ago writing "morning pages" (by Julia Cameron) to begin my day. Julia recommends writing 3 pages long-hand for 20 minutes first thing in the morning. A free-writing practice, the key is to write without editing your words. It's a mindful practice that helps clear the cobwebs, and it helps strengthen general writing muscles. Read more about Morning Page tips.
"Be strict with showing up and lenient with the results" (a philosophy encouraged by one of my mentors: George Kao). You can read his Authentic Marketing articles here.
Write, write, write and edit later. If I start feeling stuck, I use the Pomodoro method; a technique used to work in timed intervals (usually 25 minutes of creating with a 5 minute break). Tomato Timer is a great, free online Pomodoro tool. Try it and let me know how it goes in the comments below! If you get stuck, try writing "I have more to say. I have more to say. I have more to say" until something else comes out. It's an interesting mind trick, and I've found works for me and many of my students.
Mind Mapping. Sometimes writer's block is due to feeling overwhelmed (with too much to say or feeling unsure where to begin). Mind Mapping is an excellent non-linear way to get your ideas down quickly (similar to a brain-dump), and can be used as an outline with clear writing prompts and topics later. Coggle is an excellent, free online mind mapping tool.
Speak to Write tools vs Typing. Maybe you've tried writing, but you either can't or don't enjoy writing long-hand or typing. Or maybe you love the act of writing, but don't feel like it today. Try using one of the free Speak to Write tools or internet browser plugins. You might be surprised how accurate they are now, and your writing will reflect your speaking style.
If you're still struggling to write, sometimes you can try simply beginning by setting limitations. You might decide you'll write one page, or only for 2 or 5 minutes. You might be surprised to find the words freely flowing and pouring out of you. Sometimes it’s a small spark that fans a creative flame; like something was brewing under the surface waiting to appear. Again, I think it comes back to George Kao’s philosophy; creating the space and time and being okay with whatever comes up.
Allow yourself to write or create.
Be curious and non-judgmental of what arises.
This practice is similar to sitting meditation, or mindful art, or any mindfulness practice.
Our Inner Critic thrives on judgment and criticism. It thrives on fear-based thoughts. The key is to acknowledge the fear is there, and use small and simple techniques that encourage you to create in a more free way. Like building a muscle, it will become easier with practice.
The Inner Critic is trying to “protect” you. It can be a beautiful thing AND a frustrating one. For me, once I start writing or creating (and once I’m in the FLOW), I feel vibrant and inspired. I am grateful and often wonder why I didn’t start to begin with and simply begin. I know it's easier said than done. You're not alone in the struggle. Remember:
Create the time and space. Show up. Allow whatever wants to unfold to unfold. Stay and play. Evaluate and edit later. Rinse and Repeat.
Seth Godin’s writing comes to mind. He compares artists to artisans. To field workers. To people who commit to putting on a smock everyday and showing up in the studio and doing the work. To tending the fields day in and day out.
Again, momentum does not mean easy, it means progress and commitment and showing up. Once I’m IN a good flow of creating, it’s like I can breathe again, and I wonder why I’d been stubbornly holding my breath so long waiting for the perfect moment to arrive.
Your art and writing doesn't need to be perfect.
It needs to be free and expressed.
Can you relate? I'd love to hear your experience with the Inner Critic, writer's block, any practices that work to free your Creative Muse, and which of the tips above resonate with you. I'll be sharing more tips to Embrace your Inner Critic soon. Until next time, Happy Creating!
Disclaimer:
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